Manager - Machining & Fabrication

About this role

Application close date: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed. At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!   

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

As part of a hardworking team of specialists, technicians, and engineers, you will stand up and lead a new, in-house emergent fabrication, machining, and precision cleaning capability for our Lunar Permanence business unit. This is a rare opportunity to build a critical function from the ground up, establishing the team, facility, equipment, and processes necessary to solve schedule-critical hardware challenges.

This pivotal role will lead a multi-disciplinary team in achieving operational excellence, giving our Lunar Operations Team direct control over recovery and development work to ensure mission success. In addition to the emergent work cell, this role will also oversee the Process Development Laboratory, guiding the transition of new manufacturing technologies from R&D into full production. The ideal candidate is a results-driven leader with deep technical expertise in machining, experience building new capabilities, and a passion for mentoring a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.

Special Mentions: • Relocation provided • Shift: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Lead, mentor, and develop a new team of CNC programmers, machinists, and manufacturing engineering, fostering a collaborative, safety-first, and results-oriented culture. • Lead the stand-up and commissioning of the new Emergent Fabrication cell, including facility layout, capital equipment installation and activation, and process/procedure definition for machining and precision cleaning. • Manage the day-to-day operations of the emergent work cell, prioritizing and scheduling work to resolve schedule-critical hardware non-conformances and engineering changes with the shortest possible lead time. • Provide technical leadership and guidance on CNC machining (5-axis, 3-axis, lathe), conventional machining, tooling, fixturing, and metrology. • Establish and manage an in-house precision cleaning capability for schedule-critical components, ensuring compliance with all required cleanliness specifications. • Oversee the Process Development Laboratory, managing the pipeline of new technologies and leading the end-to-end transition of validated processes (e.g., 3D printing, XR/VR) from the lab into full production. • Manage the budget, resource allocation, and capital expenditures for the function. • Collaborate closely with vehicle integration, engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to rapidly address manufacturing challenges and ensure seamless workflow. • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the safety, quality, and efficiency of the machining cell, precision cleaning, and the process development lab. • Ensure full compliance with all safety, regulatory, and quality standards, including AS9100.

Minimum Qualifications: • 6+ years of progressive experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2 years in a people management role. • Demonstrated experience leading a production team in a precision machining, fabrication, or prototype shop environment. • Deep understanding of CNC machining, conventional machining, tooling, fixturing, and proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T. • Experience standing up or activating a new production work center, manufacturing line, or a similar capability from the ground up. • Proven ability to manage a production schedule and drive daily execution against it in a high-complexity, low-volume environment. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to work cross-functionally and mentor a team.

Preferred Qualifications: • Background in launch vehicle, spacecraft, or large-scale aerospace assembly and fabrication. • Experience managing production operations through a first-article build in an aerospace or defense program. • Hands-on experience with CAD/CAM software (e.g., Siemens NX, Mastercam) and CNC programming. • Experience with process development and the transition of new manufacturing technologies into a production environment. • Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing (FDM/SLA), XR/VR systems, and NDT methods. • Background in lean manufacturing, 5S, or similar workplace organization methodologies. • Experience managing capital projects and operational budgets.

Culture Statement Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check • Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check • Required for Certain Job Profiles:  Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation • Required for Certain Job Profile

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